Simple Zuppa Toscana

Introduction:
This Simple Zuppa Toscana is a hearty, comforting soup that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Made with Italian sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is a favorite at many Italian restaurants and can now be made easily at home. It’s perfect for cold days or when you want a warm, satisfying meal in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Hearty and comforting: A warm and filling soup that’s perfect for any season.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a great go-to meal.
• Crowd-pleaser: Delicious and filling, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 lb potatoes, diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving some of the drippings in the pot.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Potatoes:
   • Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Kale and Cream:
   • Stir in the chopped kale and cooked sausage. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle the Zuppa Toscana into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for a little extra kick, or mild if you prefer a more subtle flavor.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes will give a softer texture, while Yukon Golds will hold their shape better.
• Kale: Make sure to remove the tough stems from the kale before chopping.

Recipe Variations:

• Lightened Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add Bacon: Fry some chopped bacon along with the sausage for extra flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and a plant-based sausage alternative for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, add the cream after reheating, as dairy doesn’t freeze well.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

Special Equipment:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking the soup.
• Ladle: For serving.

FAQ:

• Can I use spinach instead of kale?
  Yes, spinach can be substituted, but add it at the very end since it wilts more quickly.
• Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
  Yes, cook the sausage first, then add all ingredients except the cream and kale to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then add the cream and kale in the last 30 minutes.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for chopping and prepping ingredients.

Cook Time:

• 25 minutes for cooking the soup.

Total Time:

• 35 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Simple Zuppa Toscana

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• Author: Adriel
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 lb potatoes, diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

• Cook the Sausage:
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving some of the drippings in the pot.
• Cook the Aromatics:
  • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the Broth and Potatoes:
  • Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
• Add the Kale and Cream:
  • Stir in the chopped kale and cooked sausage. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve:
  • Ladle the Zuppa Toscana into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 mniutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 20g

Closing Notes:
We hope you enjoy making this Simple Zuppa Toscana! Share your results in the comments and tag us with your soup creations. Be sure to check back for more cozy and comforting recipes!